BRENTWOOD, Tenn. (WTVF) — You can find the face of hope in Kathy Baugher -- the daughter of Ray and Jean Hester -- after a month that has given hope a run for its money.
Both of Kathy's parents contracted COVID-19. Their cases took both of them to the critical care area of the hospital, where they were able to share a final moment together, holding hands from their two separate hospital beds.
But in the process of caring for Kathy's parents, Kathy's brother Dan Hester also contracted the coronavirus.
"He said 'I want to do everything I can to live, everything they want, you say yes to'," Kathy said. "And I said, 'Alright, I will."
While Dan and Kathy's parents condition worsened, Dan's condition also worsened, to the point where Dan was placed under heavy sedation, where he's been ever since.
During that time, Dan and Kathy's parents passed away.
"My parents aren't suffering any more," Kathy said. "They're with the Lord and Dan is fighting the good fight."
Because of Dan's heavy sedation, he is unaware that both of his parents have died from the coronavirus. But for someone who has every reason to lose faith right now, Kathy says faith is exactly what's helping Dan fight.
"I think about it all the time, that Jesus is there with him in the darkness," Kathy said.
Kathy now faces the prospect of an incredibly difficult conversation with her brother if he improves. But in the face of possibly more unimaginable anguish, Kathy says it's hope that heals.
"I have not wanted this to be a story of grief," Kathy said. "I want this to be a story of hope."
